GOING: Following a dry night the going remains, good, good to soft in places. Clerk of the course Simon Claisse reported, “The chase ground is all fresh today. We’ve kept a few yards on the inside for them for today which we haven’t been on for 12 months.”

JCB Triumph Hurdle Grade 1 Cl1 2m1f

Tiger Roll jumped well and travelled like a dream through the race. On the long run to the final flight, it was clear he had the race won bar a fall. Jumping that flight and landing running, he surged clear to the line. His RPR was 4lb below that of the second horse home in 2013 and 3lb below the 2012 winner. Kentucky Hyden continued his consistent form since arriving in the UK. Slightly hampered at the second flight, he made one or two mistakes but remained in touch. Running to the final flight, he shared the lead with Guitar Pete; however, the winner had them firmly in his sights. Jumping the last fluently, he kept on for an honourable second place.It should be noted this effort pays a huge compliment to the sidelined Le Rocher who beat him ten-lengths on Trials Day at the end of January. Guitar Pete continued his excellent form over hurdles. Always prominent he led at the second last but was unable to find any extra pace. Calipto was slightly hampered at the second flight. Jumping well, he made progress down the hill towards the second last flight. Unfortunately, his stirrup iron broke and Mr Jacobs was left to ride without his irons. Despite trying to close on the leaders, a mistake at the final flight sealed his fate. He was travelling as well as the winner at the time of the incident. Rutherglen stayed on well into a never nearer fifth. He will stay further than this and should do well when reverting to the flat. Royal Irish Hussar raced on the outside and failed to settle. He was beaten after two out and looks the sort that needs smaller fields. Broughton failed to make any impression having been hampered at the third last. He may be the type to bounce back at Aintree.Plinth ran like a drain.

Vincent O´Brien County Handicap Hurdle Grade 3 Cl1 2m1f

Lac Fontana had previously shown his best form in smaller fields. Close to the leaders, he lost his position three from home. Rallying well under pressure, he came with a late, telling, run to snatch the race close to the line. He ran as though he will further if required. Arctic Fire was held up at the back of the field. Making steady headway from two out, he quickened into the lead with a furlong to run. Keeping on, he was denied by the winner close home. Montbazon showed a welcome return to form in third place equalling his 2012 Supreme Hurdle RPR. In the lead approaching the final flight he lacked the pace of the first two home up the run-in. Under top-weight Diakali recorded a career best RPR in fourth place. One imagines he will be hunting Euros in Ireland and France in the coming weeks. Flaxen Flareran up to his best in fifth place suggesting the form will hold-up. Minella Foru ran well for an inexperienced horse to finish sixth. Deep Trouble made good late headway to finish in seventh place. The handicapper appears to have him about right. However, his record in Class Three/Four races reads 2, 1, 2, 2, 1, 2. Alaivan ran another sound race to finish ninth. He remains well-handicapped with a drop in grade the suggested route. His record on right-handed tracks reads 1, 1, 1, 5, UP, 2. Lyvius ran a fair race if lacking the pace to trouble the leaders as the race developed. He is another that needs a slight drop in grade. Cash And Go displayed enough to suggest he retains the ability to win a handicap at some stage. Anay Turge never showed. Cheltenian was still in contention when pulled-up between the last two flights. One assumes something went amiss, though his trainer reports nothing has come to light. Never Enough Timeweakened out of contention at the second last. He looks to need soft ground.

Very Wood upped his game by around 14/15lb to take this event. Given a typically quiet “Carberry” ride he made headway down to join in the fun approaching the last flight. Jumping that in good style, he powered up the hill looking an out and out stayer. Possessing the scope to jump a fence, he should be a useful addition to the novice ranks next season. Deputy Dan travelled near the pace until taking over from Kings Palace after the second last. Kicked for home, he was joined at the last, which he jumped slowly. Unable to raise another effort he stuck on well for second. A fine run a ground that would have been faster than he cares for. Apache Jack made headway down the hill. Having jumped the second last, he chased the runner-up until the winner joined both horses at the final flight. Apache Jack kept on well without ever looking better than third best. Champagne West ran creditably to finish fourth equalling his best RPR rating. Kings Palace led or disputed the lead until the second last hurdle. He was well-beaten when falling at the last hurdle. His trainer suggested the ground was too quick. Briar Hill raced in behind the leaders until falling at the seventh flight. He sustained a broken bone under his eye and misses the remainder of the season. Urban Hymn made a lot of the running before fading. He is every inch a chaser for next season. Captain Cutter lost his action on the run to the last and was pulled-up.

Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase Grade 1 Cl1 3m2f110y

Lord Windermere’swinning RPR is 11lb below Bobs Worth in 2013 and 3lb below Synchronised’s 2012 win. Timeform have the winner 6lb below Bobs Worth’s 2012 win. Racing at the rear of the field, Lord Windermere began to make headway from the third last. At the second last, he was still in seventh place. Hard driven approaching the last fence, he ran on strongly to lead halfway up the run-in. Despite hanging to his right (under a correct right-hand drive), he held on grimly to the line.On His Own led or disputed the lead through the race. Joined at the third last, he was outpaced as the pack ran towards the second last. Having jumped the second last fence, he veered to his right hampering The Giant Bolster and Triolo D’Alene. Regaining his momentum, he jumped the last in fifth place. Carried to his right he rallied all the way to the line. The Giant Bolster was off and on the bit throughout the race. Making headway after the third last, he was bumped at the second last. Back on an even keel, he ran on gamely without ever looking as though he would win. This was his third good run in the race. Silviniaco Conti began to assert approaching the third last, turning for home looking the likely winner. Jumping the second last, he was still in front though under strong driving. Having jumped the last a length clear he wandered to his right appearing to run out of stamina in the closing half-furlong. A fine run, though his RPR was 10lb below his King George win. Bobs Worth was far from fluent through the race. Making progress after the fourth last, he was in a position to make his final assault after the third last fence. Pushed along he jumped the second last a length behind the leader. Challenging Silviniaco Conti on the run-in he wandered to his left and right finishing like a tired horse. Looking at his RPR’s since last year’s Gold Cup, one has to suggest that race has left an indelible mark. Lyreen Legend ran a blinder until hitting the second last. He appeared not to stay, but would be of interest back at three-miles. Teaforthree and Triolo D’Alene ran well up to a point, though both weakened disappointingly from the second last fence. Last Instalment was beaten when unseating his rider five from home. His tendon was damaged leading to an honourable retirement.

CGA Foxhunter Chase Challenge Cup Cl2 3m2f110y

Tammys Hill appreciated the drying ground. Making headway from midfield, he move into contention at the second last and quickly asserted having jumped the final fence. Carsontown Boy outran his odds to finish second. Despite his year he appears to be improving. On The Fringe made headway three out and looked the likely winner jumping the second last. He was unable to quicken from that point. He was found out by the drying ground. Pearlysteps was an honourable fourth, whilst inexperience almost certainly found Harbour Court out as the race developed. He stayed on late in the day was reported to have finished distressed.

Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys´ Handicap Hurdle Cl2 2m4f110y

Don Poli came through the field to join Thomas Crapper at the second last. Set alight by his above average pilot after the final flight, he scooted clear up the run-in. A fine big horse, he is all about chasing next season. Interestingly, Sir Des Champs, who won this race in 2011, recorded a 10lb lower RPR than Don Poli. Thomas Crapper, as with several horses that ran well during the week, showed good form in course and distance handicaps last October/November. He stayed on well without troubling the winner enjoying the good ground underhoof.Caid Du Berlais ran well to finish third without ever looking likely to win. Fences and hurdles come alike to this fellow, as do left and right-handed tracks. As a five-year-old, he looks sure to improve and win more races. Urbain De Sivola lost his race at the start. Making rapid progress down the hill, he had every chance until the effort of making up lost ground saw his challenge flatten out. He has run three good races this season and deserves a change of fortune. The first four home, were well clear of the fifth horse. Une Artiste ran a fair race only tiring as on the run to the final flight. Local Hero ran well. He is far more effective on conventional tracks. Full Shift never really got involved. He is a nice prospect that should do well over fences. Vieux Lion Rouge found this all too much after three wins in novice company.

Savello rounded the meeting off with a convincing win despite being far from fluent on the way round. The fourth win on the day for Gigginstown Stud. Ned Buntline had his chance and ran well. Despite wearing a hood, I am not sure he was putting it all in when asked for his final effort. Claret Cloak made stealthy headway into the race taking second on the run to the penultimate fence. Unfortunately, he made a bad mistake and did well to rally for third place. Next Sensation made a brave effort to make all the running. He stayed at the head of affaires until after the last fence keeping on at the same pace close home. Relatively fresh, he would be hard to peg back at Aintree. French Opera and Eastlake were not disgraced in fifth and sixth. The latter already has a win at Aintree on his c.v.

For a horse that ran seven times on the flat in France, Taquin Du Soleil has developed into a high-class chaser. In a race run at a good pace, he was far from fluent at several fences. Nevertheless, he gradually crept into the race. Urged into second place at the penultimate fence, he jumped the final fence upsides the gallant runner-up. Asserting halfway up the run-in he stayed on gamely. This looked a good renewal with the winners RPR 6lb higher than Benefficient in 2013. Uxizandre reverted to front-running tactics with cheekpieces applied for the first time over fences. Jumping for fun, he led until pressed after the second last fence. Keeping on under pressure, he ran his heart out up the run-in, going down by just under a length. Double Ross jumped and travelled in good styleholdingevery chance two from home. On ground that would have been quick enough, he was unable to match the pace of the first two home. Another good effort from a consistent and likeable horse. Felix Yonger began to make steady progress beforemistakes at the four and third last effectively ended any chance he had. Wonderful Charm was just behind the leaders when hampered by Djakadam’s fall four from home. Despite rallying, the best he could achieve was a staying on fourth place. He should improve on this first run for three months. Djakadam was still in with a shout when falling at the fourth last fence. Vukovar was held-up and hampered at the first fence. He jumped well, but almost certainly is better on softer ground when allowed his head. Oscar Whiskey and Mozoltov departed the fun at the first fence.

Pertemps Network Final (A Handicap Hurdle) (Listed Race) Cl1 3m

A tremendous finish with the first four home covered by half a length. Fingal Bay was heavily punted travelling like a class horse through the race. Strongly pressed at the final flight, he made a mistake and needed all of Johnson’s strength to force his head back in front on the line. His RPR was 18lb below that achieved by More Of That in the World Hurdle. Southfield Theatre ran well here in November. He reproduced his best form to go down by a nose. A fine performance suggests he will prove an above average novice chaser next season. Pineau De Re produced a strong finish, having raced towards the back of the field for most of the journey. Fine example of his trainer’s skill with older horses. Trustan Times returned to his best form, off a favourable handicap mark.Produced tochallenge at the last, he was only held in the final strides. On The Bridge caught the eye finishing strongly in sixth, while Broadway Buffalo showed enough to suggest he has turned the corner. Mister Dillon ran a good race in fifth (Hampered at the first flight). He looks sure to step up on this back on genuinely good ground. If In Doubt was never travelling. In the circumstances, he did well to finish ninth. He deserves another chance to prove his Exeter run correct. Seefood appeared to run out of gas having looked dangerous turning for home.

Whilst Dynaste ultimately ran out a convincing winner, his RPR was 7lb below that he achieved in the Betfair Chase. In receipt of an excellent waiting ride, a mistake at the third last halted his progress. However, any fears about his resolution were quashed as he jumped the last two fences in good style. Finding plenty under a strong ride, he kept on well all the way to the line. Whilst the proximity of the second and third holds down the form, he at least showed he has what it takes to win, when the chips are down. Hidden Cyclone ran an excellent race to finish second. At the head of affairs for much of the race, he jumped well appreciating the better ground. His chase form round left-handed tracks on soft ground or better, over distances short of three-miles reads, 1, 3, 1, 1, 3, 2, 2. Rajdhani Express achieved a career best in third place. He is effective going right-handed suggesting Punchestown may prove a suitable venue for his next assignment. Hunt Ball displayed he is coming back to his best form on his second start for Mr Henderson. Good ground at Aintree would see him competitive off an attractive handicap mark. Al Ferof,in truth, was never going well at any stage. The best he could achieve, under pressure, was a staying on fifth. Boston Bob was far from disgraced over an inadequate trip.Following a mistake at the third last, Benefficient weakened dramatically between the final two fences suggesting something was amiss.

Ladbrokes World Hurdle Grade 1 Cl1 3m

More Of That was held-up before tracking the leaders on the run to the second last. Running on strongly, he gained a narrow advantage at the final flight, extending all the way to the line. His RPR was 6lb higher than Solwhit last year (Timeform have him 9lb higher than Solwhit) and 2lb higher than Big Bucks in 2012. Given this was his fifth start on a racecourse, one wonders if plans to go chasing next season will be put on hold. Annie Power was on her toes before the race. She refused to drop the bridle despite Mr Walsh’s best efforts. Making headway two from home, she jumped the last upsides before the winner outstayed her. Her talent is without question. However, she is going to have to race amenably in her races, if she is to achieve success at the highest level. At Fishers Cross continued his improvement with a career high RPR in third place. If progressing again, he should go close at Aintree. Zarkandar ran to his best form, staying on well to reach fourth place. A return to Aintree looks on the cards. Big Buck’s ran to his Cleeve Hurdle RPR. However, he was unable to stay with the principals when the heat was turned up. He goes into honourable retirement following a wonderful career. Rule The World’s stamina appeared to give out jumping the second last.

Byrne Group Plate (A Handicap Chase) Grade 3 Cl1 2m4f

Ballynagour has had problems with broken blood vessels. Produced in go shape on a going day, he routed this field. Cruising into the lead two from home, he quickened away to win with plenty in hand. Colour Squadron produced another fine display on the course. Unfortunately, he met a decent horse on a going day. He did nothing wrong and deserves to win a similar race. Tatenen ran to his best, holding up the form of the first two horses pass the post. John’s Spirit had the ground underhoof. He appears in the handicappers grip at present. Champion Court is another thatneeds help from the handicapper. Giorgio Quercus ran well enough to suggest he could win in a lower grade round a more conventional track.

Spring Heeled led from the fourth fence. Jumping well, he was left in charge when Cause Of Causes blundered away his chance away at the final fence. Spring Heeled stays well and looks a player in decent staying handicaps at Aintree or Punchestown. Cause Of Causes crept into the race under a typically quiet ride from Nina Carberry. Unfortunately, he made a mistake at the final fence and was unable to get back on terms. Consistent, he deserves to win a valuable handicap. Roberta Goldback stayed on well into third place having been outpaced a mile from home. Following this run and looking at his profile, Balnaslow looks an ideal type for the Topham Trophy. Indian Castle worked his way into contention but was a spent force when blundering badly at the second last. His trainer’s runners disappointed over the four days.

Faugheen ran out an impressive winner despite jumping clumsily on more than one occasion.The race was run at a good pace enabling his stamina to come into play at the business end. He clearly has a huge engine and prove hard to beat if sent for one of the Festivals in Ireland. Chasing looks likely to be on the agenda next season. If staying in one piece, he looks a leading player for the RSA, even at this early stage. Ballyalton returned to his best on the good ground underhoof. Making steady headway through the field, he ran on strongly without troubling the winner. Built for chasing, he will be sent over fences in the autumn. Nearer to hand, he should run well at Aintree having shown decent form on flat tracks. Rathvinden stayed on well for third despite getting in a barging match with Red Sherlock on the run to the final flight. Killala Quay missed a few hurdles on the way round. However, to his credit he stuck on well to record a career best in fourth place. Twelve Roses ran a blinder in fifth though the handicapper will have his say. Red Sherlock fadeddisappointingly between the last two flights, a remark that applies to Lieutenant Colonel. Cole Harden and Cup Final are ones to note if dropped down in class next time out.

RSA Chase (Grade 1) Cl1 3m110y

Despite pulling off a back shoe and twisting a front one, O’Faolains Boy displayed the utmost courage to land the spoils. Challenged all the way up the run-in, he held on gamely from the equally game runner-up. Mr Geraghty reported he did not travel as well as he did at Ascot. Overall, a likeable effort with things conspiring against him. Smad Place ran his usual game race, jumping well and running on strongly. He deserves to land a similar event, though Aintree may come too soon for a horse that is best fresh. Morning Assembly ran well on ground that was on the fast side. A four-time winner at Punchestown, he will take some stopping if turning up at that venue in April. Despite a recent fall whilst schooling, Ballycasey jumped and travelled in good style. Unfortunately, the tank began to empty after the second last, suggesting he may prove best at shorter trips. Lightly raced he could be a Ryanair contender if staying sound and healthy. Sam Winner ran a sound race despite looking one paced. He appears at his best on good or good to soft and could be a Whitbread Gold Cup/Scottish National horse. Carlingford Lough ran up to his best, which is just below Grade One standard. Just A Par and Gevrey Chambertin were far from disgraced.

Coral Cup (A Handicap Hurdle) Grade 3 Cl1 2m5f

An exciting finish with Whisper just holding Get Me Out Of Here by a short-head. The former jumped well, responding to a fine ride by his 5lb claimer. One wonders if his future lies over fences next season. Get Me Out Of Here returned to his best. Despite receiving a vintage waiting ride from AP, he was unable to force his head in front on the line. This was his fifth runner-up spot at Cheltenham. A fine example of his trainer’s ability to peak a horse at the right time. Bayan, sharpened up in a recent Charity Sweepstakes, ran well. Challenging at the last, he failed to see it out as well as the first two. Smashing was less than fluent three out but made good late headway to challenge at the last. He just lacked the final thrust of those in front of him. Dell’Arca ran a good race to finish fifth, rallying well on the run-in. He may been better off in the Conditional Jockeys race under a claim. Kaylif Aramis was still in contention when departing the fun three from home.Considering the race was not run to suit their style of running, Vendor and Ifandbutwhynot ran fair races.

BetVictor Queen Mother Champion Chase Grade 1 Cl1 2m

Sire De Grugy received a brilliant ride from Mr Moore. Held up in the early stages, he travelled and jumped like a dream. Moving thought to challenge two from home, he quickened clear to win easily. This run displays just how good Sprinter Sacre was in 2013, given he recorded a 17lb higher RPR in that renewal. Somersby ran up to his very best despite hitting the third from home. Leading two out, he was joined by the winner but kept on gamely to hold second place. Module continued his progression on ground that would have been plenty quick enough. Possessing the stamina for two and a half-miles, he could make up into a Ryanair contender next season. Sizing Europe ran well until two out. It appears age has finally caught up with this hugely talented and consistent chaser. Hinterland was travelling easily, under a patient ride, when brought down by Baily Green (still going well)at the top of the hill. Returned to Prestbury Park, Arvika Ligeonniere ran like a drainfor the second Festival in a row. Captain Conan pulled up at an early stage with an injury, which will need several weeks of box rest.

Glenfarclas Handicap Chase (A Cross Country Chase) Cl2 3m7f

Balthazar King displayed his usual courage when just lasting home from Any Currency. Having swept into the lead two out, he drew on all his reserves to prevail by a short-head, conceding the runner-up 18lb. Any Currency ran his heart out and deserves to land a similar prize at some stage. Big Shu looked a huge danger turning for home. Jumping the last, he found his 11lb higher mark preventing a repeat of his 2013 win. Duke of Lucca ran a fine race in fourth for the Hobbs team. They certainly know the key that unlocks success round this unique course. Sizing Australia ran on late to take a respectable fifth place.

Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle Grade 3 Cl1 2m110y

Hawk High travelled well through the race. Turning for home, he looked a serious threat to all and duly ran out a game winner. Back in second, came the unlucky Katgary,who was hampered as the second last and failed to land running after the final flight. Orgilgo Bay ran his best race over hurdles just failing to see it out as well as those in front of him. Keltus was another hampered at the second last. Rallying to good effect, he finished strongly looking a shade unlucky. Baradari finished well and should improve over further while Solar Impulse ran well if one-paced when it mattered. He should make a useful novice chaser next season. Clarcam was still going strongly when falling two from home. He would have been involved in the finish. Ivan Grozny runs as if he has a breathing problem, which surfaces in the latter stages of his races.

Silver Concorde was produced with a well-timed challenge to take the lead just under a furlong from home. If he can be kept in one piece, he will prove a useful hurdler. His RPR was 1lb less than Briar Hill last year. Shaneshill raced just off the pace until turning for home. Produced to take the lead a furlong out, he held all at bay bar the winner. Stamina looks his strong suit and he should make a decent novice hurdler next season. Joshua Lane outran his odds, staying on strongly in third place. He ran close to the form he had shown when second to Shaneshill earlier in the season. Black Hercules set what turned out to be a suicidal pace. Despite possessing plenty of stamina, he paid for his earlier exertions on the long run from the turn for home. Vigil, Killultagh Vic,and Modus were far from disgraced.

Sky Bet Supreme Novices´ Hurdle Grade 1

Vautour made virtually all the running. Jumping well he quickened before the second last, putting in a huge jump at the final flight to surge clear up the run-in. Whilst visually impressive, it should be noted his RPR was 4lb below that of Champagne Fever the previous year. He possesses the size and scope to jump a fence and looks a realistic contender for the 2015 Arkle at this stage. Considering Josses Hill is an embryo chaser, he ran a fine race finishing well into second having been thereabouts from the start. Stablechum Vaniteux ran well considering he looks to need further. Yet another fron the Pointing field, he looks a two and a half-miles horse if his breeding is anything to go by. Sgt Reckless is a useful horse on good ground. However, this was his first attempt over hurdles on an undulating track having disappointed in the 2013 Festival Bumper. Anchored at the back of the field, he made a mistake at the third hurdle. Going down the hill, he jumped the third last well still under restraint from Mr Elsworth. Having jumped the second last, he made relentless progress to finish a highly creditable fourth. One has to suggest, a less conservative ride would have seen him taking second place. Wilde Blue Yonder returned a good run in fifth. One hopes that this will have boosted his confidence with a view to the future. Wicklow Brave did well to finish sixth given he was on his toes and raced with the choke out for some way. Speed tracks look likely to suit him best. Irving was never in the race. It appeared a combination of the undulating track, in a fast run race, with less emphasis of speed, counted against him. Valseur Lido ran well despite losing his place at the top of the hill. Running on well, he will come on for the race and stay further. Un Ace was not disgraced and should be winning again at a lower level.

Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy Chase Grade 1 Cl1 2m

Western Warhorse created a huge shock when getting up in the final strides to touch-off Champagne Fever. Unbelievably, the horse improved 24lb on RPR’s. In fairness, he was an expensive purchase at £130,000 . However, Tom Scudamore remarks from previous races, including fruit-loop, hardly inspired confidence.. He has always jumped well. Having raced prominently, he lost his place at the top of the hill, he ran a strongly from the turn for home to gain a memorable victory. Champagne Fever ran within 2lb of his Supreme Hurdle RPR. Having jumped well he stayed on courageously only to be denied close home. One suspects lack of a recent run may have cost him the win. Trifolium jumped well apart from a mistake at the third fence. He produced his best RPR of the season suggesting he is just short of Grade One ability. Rock On Ruby hit the second fence and found the whole experience too much for a horse that was brought late to chasing. Dodging Bullets ran his usual sound race if a bit below his best. He has had a busy season. Valdez is another short of Grade One level and may prove at his very best on a flat track. Grandouet schools brilliantly at home but cannot reproduce it under Mr Geraghty on the track.

Baylis & Harding Affordable Luxury Handicap Chase Grade 3 Cl1 3m110y

Holywell travelled like a dream, jumping soundly apart from a mistake three out. Produced at the last, he showed a fine turn of foot to pass the gallant runner-up. He has been brilliantly placed to win another handicap at the Festival. Ma Filleule ran a blinder jumping well until a mistake at the third last caused her ride to lose his irons. Recovering their composure both mare and her excellent claiming rider jumped ahead at the second last. Keeping on well she lacked the winner speed on the run-in. The Package made ground in the final mile and ran on strongly in the closing stages to take third place. Approaching the veteran stage, he could nevertheless, run well in the Grand National. Green Flag and Tour Des Champs both ran well being outpaced at a vital stage before staying on well. Both look worthy of consideration if heading for the Scottish Grand National. The former has a good record at Ayr while the latter is currently 5lb lower than his fourth place last year. Standing Ovation showed enough to suggest he can win a slightly lower grade on a right-handed track. Alfie Sherrin ran a promising race in midfield. Unlikely to make the National cut, he has a good staying handicap in him. Hadrian’s Approach jumped soundly but failed to fire from four out.

Stan James Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy Grade 1 Cl1 2m110y

Predictably,MTOYpulled like a train. At this level, a combination of expended energy and not landing running after the last, contributed to a narrow defeat. Unless connections can somehow harness his natural exuberance he will always be vulnerable at the end of his races. He is unbeaten going right-handed and would be of considerable interest if sent to Punchestown where the track should suit.The New One lost several lengths and valuable momentum when hampered by the stricken Our Conor. Despite making his ground steadily, he was unable to land a serious challenge. Nevertheless, he reduced the margin between himself and Jezki by five-to six-lengths on the run-in.All things considered, he has to be counted an unlucky loser.Hurricane Fly made a gallant attempt to land his third Champion Hurdle. Well placed turning for home he was unable to sustain the effort weakening into fourth. Interesting to hear Ruby Walsh suggesting, “Hurricane Fly did something he has never done in the past, which was stop. If he had kept going off the bend and gone to the last with Jezki, only to be run out of it in third, you would say age has caught up with him. However, he stopped, which is so uncharacteristic of him. For whatever reason, I don’t know, but he did stop.”Captain Cee Bee was not disgraced nor was P’Tit Zig who should make a fine chaser next season.

Quevega earned a place in history winning a sixth successive race at the Festival. Travelled well until outpaced coming down the hill. Quevega began to close on the leaders approaching the last flight and gamely wore down the second and third on the run to the line. This looks a minimum trip for her nowadays. Glens Melody has done nothing but improve this season. Leading over the last, she found Quevega’s irresistible surge too much on the run-in. L’Unique ran a blinder in third, returning a career best RPR. Worth noting, she is unbeaten at Aintree. Cockney Sparrow was hampered by Sire D’Ainay’s fall two from home. Regaining her momentum, she ran on well to finish an honourable fifth. I feel she is at her best on a flat track. Sirene D’Ainay made most before clipping the top the second last, taking a heavy tumble. She looked to have more to offer.

Midnight Prayer is a likable sort that jumps well. He handles the ground and answered all his riders’ calls in a tight finish. If sent for the Scottish Grand National he would be worthy of consideration. Shotgun Paddy produced an excellent effort to finish second. However, mistakes at three fences on the final circuit probably have cost him the race. In addition, the ground would not have been his favoured surface. RPR’s suggest he was below his best. The trainer suggests he looks an ideal Welsh National horse, which is hard to argue against. Suntiep looked to be given an awful lot to do being, last going away from the stands for the final time. A mistake at the third last probably cost him his winning chance. Despite rallying he was unable to close the gap on the leaders. Lightly raced, he could be one for the Irish National. Adrenalin Flight ran a sound race in fourth, finishing to good effect from the home turn. Shutthefrontdoor jumping was less than fluent at times. Until that is sorted out, he is not going to fulfil his undoubted potential. Ground and jumping cost Foxrock any chance of victory.

Rewards4Racing Novices´ Handicap Chase (Listed Race) Cl1 2m4f110y

Present View jumped well throughout the race. Taking a definite advantage at the third last, he jumped the final fence in good style and lengthened all the way to the line. Considering Mr Powell had the whip in his right hand, one has to question why Attaglance was switched to the inside on the run-in. Whilst hecan be considered unlucky, looking at the head-on it appears Mr Hughes could as easily have challenged the winner on the outside, rather than switching to a tight gap on the rails. A true spring Festival horse, he will no doubt bid for compensation at Aintree. Pendra made several mistakes on the way round. A final mistake at the last cost him any chance of victory, though he kept on gamely to the line. With further improvement likely, he looks an ideal type for the Paddy Power Gold Cup in November. Mistakes at the fifth, third, and second fences cost Buywise any chance of victory. This was his first attempt on an undulating track on goodish ground. Taking into account both factors he looks the one to take from the race. Ahyaknowyerself run well in fourth continuing his consistent and improving time over fences. Manyriverstocross ran well until finding the trip catching him out before the second last. He may be happiest on a conventional track.

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Photo of Cheltenham Gold Cup by Kerry Hendry of Love The Image. The feature race of the Cheltenham Festival and the one that everybody out there is desperate to win. Won in recent years by the magnificent Kauto Star, Denman and more recently Bobs Worth, who takes his place in the line-up once more to defend his crown. Bobs Worth has an impeccable Cheltenham record and has been undefeated in his three festival races and is unbeaten in five starts at the track. The hill compliments him perfectly and he is incredibly tough to beat at the track. His relationship with jockey Barry Geraghty is poetry and their performance in the Lexus last time should put him in perfect shape for this one. Trainer Nicky Henderson has released a further upbeat bulletin about him and when he takes his place to retain his crown you would hope he would go mighty close to putting him in an elite team of great horses. He no doubt has a mighty task on his hands with the likes of Silviniaco Conti and Last Instalment coming into the race in great form, but he always seems to find more up the Cheltenham run in and in a fight to the line you would not want your money anywhere else. Silviniaco Conti comes into the race looking better than ever and his winning run in the King George is superb looking form. He fell in the race last year when still going well, even it visually looked like a tired fall. Noel Fehilly is getting a tremendous tune out of him and it will be interesting to see how he fares in this one. He is a fantastic stayer and it will be great to see how he comes up the hill. His fall last year combined with his slightly disappointing run in the Betfair Chase means Bobs Worth is chosen in preference as the selection. Having said that, the Betfair is probably an unfair judgement point and he must have a terrific chance. The Gigginstown pair of Last Instalment and First Lieutenant both come into the race with solid claims. Last Instalment was seriously impressive last time and has to be considered on that. However, he is still a doubt with the Fenton yard shrouded in controversy and only time will tell if this has affected his preparation for the race with the likes of The Tullow Tank now not crossing the Irish Sea. First Lieutenant is a horse I have followed for a long time now, he has however been a tad disappointing and his performances this season do leave him with a bit to find. However, he is crying out for this trip and it will be interesting to see him run nevertheless. David Bridgewater has been oozing confidence about The Giant Bolster who put in a mighty performance to win last time. He will be in there pitching and is an admirable sort for a really attractive yard. He does however look to be little bit short of the standard required to win a Gold Cup. He has been placed and that is arguably the best performance of his career, which does leave him a bit to find on the likes of Bobs Worth. Triolo D’Alene was recently given the all clear to have a crack on route to the National. He worked well enough to warrant a place in the race. Listen to Nicky Henderson speak about him two seasons ago when he’d first arrived in the yard and you would think he was going to win a Gold Cup. He has got his act together after a slow start and now looks to have a great chance in the Grand National. However, he is the stable’s second string here and probably isn’t quite good enough to win a Gold Cup. Harry Topper has been a revelation this season and has shown he is a high quality horse. He won impressively last time, beating Al Ferof comfortably. He comes into the race in good form and must be taken seriously even if not from a win perspective. Two horses that I like at big prices are Boston Bob and Lyreen Legend. The latter ran a cracker in the RSA Chase last year, and looked just as good when shaping very encouragingly on his comeback run in the Lexus Chase. He was a bit disappointing in the Irish Hennessy but is worth another chance at a big price. Boston Bob was also running a blinder in the RSA Chase when taking a heavy fall. He has always been highly regarded but has been a bit of a nearly horse and hasn’t quite shown that potential championship race winning ability. If he could come back to his RSA Chase form he too would have a chance. He though however, is not a definite to line up in this with entries elsewhere. Of the others, Captain Chris and Dynaste are both useful performers and the former of the two comes into the race in better form than ever on the back of two wins in lesser company. Dynaste does have a bit to prove after his latest performance but is by no means ruled out on the strength of his Betfair Chase form. Although his Cheltenham form from last season is a bit worrying, where he didn’t seem to quite power up the hill as you would like. He may well give this race the swerve and run in the Ryanair instead. Lord Windermere won the RSA Chase last year but hasn’t looked to have trained on quite like Lyreen Legend, while Long Run now looks more like an Aintree type as the heat of many tough major races start to take their toll. Rocky Creek and Teaforthree will probably also find this too hot with greater tests of stamina more up their ally. Therefore. in conclusion the mighty Bobs Worth is hard to pass over and is a worthy favourite. Hould be a fantastic winner for all at Seven Barrows, in particular Barry Geraghty who bought him as a youngster. Lyreen Legend and Boston Bob are ones to note at huge prices. Selections: Bobs Worth 4pts WINLyreen Legend 1pt E/W

Cheltenham Gold Cup is always hotly anticipated with the race providing a test of class and stamina over three miles, two furlongs. As usual, it will be run on the Friday and there are currently thirty six entries. Previous Gold Cups and last year’s RSA Chase, as well as last weekend’s Irish Hennessy and Denman Chase will provide many of the clues.

Last year’s winner was the Irish-bred Bob’s Worth. He rounded a hat trick of wins for Barry Geraghty at the Festival. Bob’s Worth is five from five around the Gloucestershire track, and comes into the race this year as favourite. A poor showing at Haydock was followed up by victory in the Lexus Chase.

Only four remain from last year’s field, which includes Long Run, fourth-placed The Giant Bolster, and Monbeg Dude who was pulled up. Winning the Argento in January gave The Giant Bolster his third win round Cheltenham, and it looks like he could put in another good round. Long Run, while getting on a bit in age, won the race back in 2011. His usually very consistent performances have dropped off this season, including an unseating, while Monbeg Dude has won two Grade 3s round Prestbury Park. Knockara Beau saw off At Fisher’s Cross and Big Buck’s on his comeback recently, and both him and Long Run are engaged to run at Kelso next Thursday.

Katenko won on his first and only start round the undulating Cheltenham course and he picked up a Group 3 just over twelve months ago. His reappearance in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury saw him fall when travelling okay but he was very disappointing at the Berkshire track on Saturday. The winner of Hennessy, Triolo D’Alene, is a proven jumper, having also previously won the Topham Chase over the Aintree fences. He is the third of Nicky Henderson’s runners after Bob’s Worth and Long Run.

Last year’s first and second placed horses in the RSA Chase have also been entered. Lord Windermere went past Lyreen Legend as they battled it out up the hill last year. The former gave Jim Culloty a first winner at Cheltenham as a trainer, with Bryan Cooper in second in a week where he announced himself to the racing public as a future star. Boston Bob, who fell at the last, is also entered.

Cooper’s retainer with Gigginstown will likely see him ride one of their five entries, which are First Lieutenant, Last Instalment, Dedigout, Bog Warrior, and Roi Du Mee. Of those, Last Instalment could be the one he plumps for following his terrific win in the Irish Hennessy on Sunday.

The field as it stands is unlikely to have as many come March, with doubly-entered Teaforthree, Time for Rupert and Medermit unlikely to run. The latter two have entries for the Ryanair.

A revival of the form, which saw Captain Chris win two Grade 1s in 2011, including an Arkle in front of Finian’s Rainbow, could see him run well. Dynaste, meanwhile, has recorded nearly all his wins on flatter tracks. Last year’s hopes for him have faded and he may also go for the Ryanair.

Owner John Hales, who’s Azertyuiop won the Queen Mother ten years ago, is represented this year by Al Ferof and Unioniste. The former previously won the Supreme Novices’ and the Paddy Power Gold Cup Chase but was very disappointing at Newbury on Saturday, while the six-year-old Unioniste finished fourth in the RSA.

Al Ferof and Unioniste make up two fifths of Paul Nicholls’ trained entries. He also has Silviniaco Conti, who will be going straight to the Gold Cup. He lacks a race since last year, as well as recording most of his wins on flatter tracks, such as Newbury and Kempton.

Fellow owner Rich Ricci, who owns the versatile Annie Power, has only one entry in Arvika Ligeonnaire. A big concern for him will be going left-handed; he distinctly jumped to the right in a Grade 1 Novice Chase at Leopardstown in December 2012.

Barry Connell, who has Our Conor to look forward to in the Champion Hurdle, is represented by Mount Benbulben. He won the Champion Novice Chase at Punchestown last year and is likely to be ridden by Danny Mullins, in what will be his second start in the UK, following on from a seventeen length fourth in the King George round Kempton.

Last year’s Ryanair winner, and recent winner of the Betfair Chase at Haydock, Cue Card is surely going to be a live contender, while stablemate Theatre Guide also holds an entry.

Last weekend gave us more form to digest in the run up to the Gold Cup. The Denman Chase over three miles at Newbury was run in heavy conditions and four of the five runners hold an entry for the March showpiece. Harry Topper prevailed by twenty five lengths, from Al Ferof, with Katenko in third, and Vino Griego pulled up for the Moore team. Harry Topper was following up from his win in the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby in November.

The conditions in the Irish Hennessy came up soft-to-heavy with the field containing a further six Gold Cup entries. The Fort Leney form was confirmed as Last Instalment went eight lengths clear under Brian O’Connell. Philip Fenton, whose Tullow Tank was beaten earlier in the Novice Hurdle, trained the winner. Tidal Bay is unlikely to race in the Gold Cup, and he came in half a length in front of the other Gigginstown runner First Lieutenant. The RSA Form took a bit of a hammering, with Lyreen Legend and Lord Windermere in 5th and 6th, with Roi du Mee bringing up the rear.

Houblon des Obeaux and Cloudy Too make up the remainder of the field. The former won a good handicap at Ascot in November, while Cloudy Too won a listed race the same month in front of Tap Night.

As such, it is still a wide open Gold Cup. With plenty of double entries to negotiate, it might be adviseable to avoid any ante-post wagers. With Al Ferof and Last Instalment are still being considered for the Ryanair, I will play it safe and opt for last year’s winner Bob’s Worth to put in a repeat performance, and join the exclusive club of multiple-time winners of the great race.

This Grade 3 handicap hurdle is named in honour of one of the greatest trainers. Run on the final day of the Cheltenham Festival over a distance of two miles, the race has been dominated by the Irish in recent years.

Year

Winner

OR

2013

Ted Veale

134

IRE

2012

Alderwood

139

IRE

2011

Final Approach

139

IRE

2010

Thousand Stars

134

IRE

2009

American Trilogy

135

Nicholls

2008

Silver Jaro

132

IRE

2007

Pedrobob

135

Ireland

2006

Desert Quest

131

Nicholls

2005

Fontanesi

128

Pipe

2004

Sporazene

151

Nicholls

Official rating has been a strong trend in the past ten years, with a winner above 139 only occurring once. No horse has carried a weight of more than 11-1 to victory in that time. Five and six year old’s have won eight of the last ten. The above also shows that if the Irish don’t win, then Paul Nicholls probably will. Not surprisingly it’s the Irish that head the betting for this year’s renewal with Gilgamboa at 10/1. So let’s take a look at the leading contenders before deciding on the likely winner. Gilgamboa Head of the betting and the obvious place to start. Won a big field handicap hurdle at Leopardstown in January. Owned by JP McManus and therefore likely to have a certain AP McCoy on top. Impressive at Leopardstown, staying on powerfully to be Flaxen Flare. Bred to stay further, which is always a good thing at Cheltenham. He’s a six-year-old and likely to get in rated in the high 130’s. Has to have a great chance. Dell’ Arca Winner of the Greatwood Hurdle at Cheltenham and second in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury. Clearly well suited to the big handicaps. A talented French import running for the Pipe team. Also entered in the Supreme but probably lacks the class for that. Off a mark of 136 in the Betfair and already a course winner at Cheltenham. A five-year-old who has to have a great chance. Quick Jack Trained in Ireland by Tony Martin. Won a handicap at Cheltenham in November. Was behind Gilgamboa and Flaxen Flare at Leopardstown, though likely to meet them on better terms. Assuming he gets in the race, he will be down the lower end of the weights. He’s a five-year-old who cannot be discounted. Cheltenian Champion bumper winner at Cheltenham in 2011. Ran a belter in the Betfair Hurdle for the in-form Philip Hobbs stable. Off a tasty mark of 134 he has plenty of class. He is however an eight-year-old and neither Irish or Nicholls trained. Lac Fontana Twice a winner this season at Cheltenham, last time on Festival Trials Day, and trained by Paul Nicholls. A five-year-old likely to run off a mark in the mid 130’s. Was impressive last time, though the form is questionable. He’s a son of one of this season’s top sires, Shirocco. Sametegal Another Nicholls French import who chased home Dell’ Arca in the Greatwood Hurdle, but has been slightly disappointing since. Rated 150 when only fifth at Musselburgh in the Scottish County Hurdle. He looks to be too high in the handicap to win this one, though the five-year-old certainly loves the course. Flaxen Flare Off a mark of 142 when second to Gilgamboa at Leopardstown. This fella is a Festival winner having won the Fred Winter last year. Another five-year-old, he was fourth to Dell’ Arca in the Greatwood and will meet him on better terms. This horse has the perfect profile and cannot be discounted. Bayan Like Flaxen Flare he is trained by Gordon Elliott. Second to Sametegal back in October at Cheltenham. Another five-year-old, he has not been seen since November when running on the flat just behind Quick Jack. Will run off a mark in the high 130’s which could prove to be very fair. Currently 20/1 in the market. Willow’s Saviour Terrific winner of the Ladbroke back in December. Had Flaxen Flare behind. Rated 143 which looks a high enough mark for this, and he’s a seven-year-old. A slight injury kept him out of the Betfair but expected to take his place at the Festival. Still one to consider after such an impressive win at Ascot. Though these appear to be the main contenders at present, it would be no surprise to see an unconsidered Irish novice turn up in this. A horse such as Minella Foru would arrive in the County off a very attractive mark in those famous JP McManus colours. At this stage, of the ones I think most likely to run, I have to fancy Gilgamboa, Dell’ Arca and Flaxen Flare. One thing is certain. Expect a powerful Irish presence in a race that honours one of their greatest.

Made his debut in December 2012 at Plumpton; running out an impressive winner of Bumper. Kings Palace went on to finish second to Captain Cutter in a Listed Bumper at Ascot. Sent to Ayr for his hurdle debut last January, he disappointed, falling two out when looking beaten. Returned to action and moved up to three-miles, he made all the running at Fontwell and Cheltenham. Returning to Cheltenham in December for the Albert Bartlett trial, he once again made all jumping well throughout. He clocked an extremely fast time on the second circuit. (Taken from the first hurdle away from the stands to the winning post). Kings Palace conceded 3lb to Masters Hill handing out a nineteen-length defeat. Masters Hill went on to run Deputy Dan to nine-lengths at level weights. His price for the Albert Bartlett has done nothing but strengthen since that run. Goes well fresh and should prove hard to pass.

ROYAL BOY

145

147

Following a disastrous chasing debut last November, Royal Boy bounced back to his best over hurdles at Ascot last December. In January 2013, he showed plenty of ability in the Tolworth Hurdle at Sandown Park. Due to the weather, this year’s renewal transferred to Kempton Park. Royal Boy travelled well through the race and making experience count, edging out stablechum Josses Hill on the run-in. The pair were clear of some decent types. Royal Boy stays well, making his Tolworth win all the more impressive. He has a good run at Cheltenham to his name (Close second to Melodic Rendezvous), and has won races on both good and soft ground. Royal Boy would be the first seven-year-old to win since French Holly in 1998. Interestingly, he too won the Tolworth Hurdle prior to Cheltenham. Ascot win enhanced recently when second won a novice hurdle by ten lengths.

CAPTAIN CUTTER

145

147

Despite the form of his last race appearing less than inspiring, he possesses good ratings. He will need to brush up his jumping as he made mistakes in each of his runs over hurdles. Bumper form ties in closely with Red Sherlock and Kings Palace. Breeding suggests he should stay three-miles with the Albert Bartlett, seemingly his chosen race. Effective on good to soft through to heavy.

BRIAR HILL

143

148

Briar Hill ran out a 25/1 winner of the 2013 Festival Bumper. Despite his starting price, there were no flukes about his comfortable success. Sent over hurdles at the start of the season, he has clocked up three wins including the Grade One Navan Hurdle and the Grade Two Slaney Hurdle. Both run over two and a half-miles. The 2009 winner of the latter event won the Neptune Hurdle. The 2012 winner finished third in the same race, while the 2013 winner finished second. Briar Hill can race on or off the pace and looks the sort to dig deep when required. Effective on goodto soft through too soft/heavy and bred to stay three-miles if required.

FAUGHEEN

142

147

Irish-Point and Bumper winner, Faugheen has won three hurdles this season. The latest came in a Grade Three at Limerick run on heavy ground over three-miles. The collateral form from his hurdle wins displays just two horses placed, subsequently winning. His breeding has stamina on both sides while he has won on good through to heavy. At the head of the Neptune Hurdle market, he would not look out of place in the Albert Bartlett.

UN TEMPS POUR TOUR

141

148

Following nine hurdle runs in France, Un Temps Pout Temps arrived in the UK with a Handicap rating of 159. Un Temps Pout Temps made his debut in this country when a promising second to Zamdy Man over two-miles at Haydock Park. Sent to Ascot and moved up half a mile, he took advantage of Cole Harden’s wayward jumping to cruised home with any amount in hand. Now rated on 148 his experience and seemingly generous handicap mark may sway connections towards his handicap entry. His profile suggests he is best on soft/heavy ground though he did win on good to soft in the French provinces.

RED SHERLOCK

140

146

Red Sherlock is unbeaten in three Bumpers and three hurdle races. Following two simple tasks earlier this season, his last win came in a Grade Two at Cheltenham. Travelling well through the race he outstayed, (despite flashing his tail under pressure) Rathvinden in the closing stages. Effective at Prestbury Park, all ground comes alike to him. Looks sure to run well in his chosen race and has plenty of improvement to come. One wonders if he is mentally mature enough for what will be the toughest race in his short career.is latest came at Cheltnahm where he came through stromngly The latest coming in a Grade Two at Cheltenham wehre he stayed on well (despite flashing his tail) T

RATHVINDEN

140

148

Dual Bumper winner that bolted up in his first hurdle race. Sent to Warwick, he fell three from home in Deputy Dan’s race. At the time of his departure, he was making good progress and looking dangerous. Returning to these shores, he battled on gamely but found Red Sherlock too strong in the closing stages. Effective on good to firm through to heavy, he looks sure to improve further.

DEPUTY DAN

140

144

Following two runner-up spots in his first two hurdle races, Deputy Dan won with plenty in hand at Chepstow. Sent to Warwick for a Grade Two, he ran out an easy winner following Rathvinden’s departure at the third last. Whilst the outcome was in the balance, Deputy Dan was jumping and travelling strongly at the time. Both his hurdle wins coincided with him facing heavy ground. Effective over two and a half-miles, he should stay further in time. Handles sharp and galloping, flat and undulating tracks.

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